Dell Inspiron 1545 Dell™ Technology Guide - Page 101

Shutdown States Microsoft® Windows Vista® Sleep Shut Down Sleep is a power-saving state, or mode. Sleep saves all open documents and programs, and allows the computer to quickly resume full-power operation (typically within several seconds) when you want to start working again. Use shut down only when you must turn off the power to your computer, for example, when you want to add memory or you don't plan to use the computer for several days. Windows® XP Standby Hibernation Shut Down Standby is a state in which the display and hard disks turn off, so that your computer uses less power. When you want to use the computer again, it comes out of standby quickly, and your desktop is restored exactly as you left it. Because standby does not save your desktop state to disk, a power failure while on standby can cause a loss of unsaved information. Hibernation is a state in which your computer shuts down to save power but first saves everything in memory on your hard disk. When you restart the computer, your desktop is restored exactly as you left it. Use hibernation to save power when you will be away from the computer for an extended time while working. Use shut down when you must turn off the power to your computer. This action shuts down Windows so that you can safely turn off the computer power. Ending a Program That is not Responding Shutting Down Your Computer 101